Marketplace All-in-One

China's Communist Party meets to strategize amidst sluggish economic growth and falling housing prices. Bolivia's new president prioritizes addressing an economic crisis with pro-business reforms. As the festive Diwali season kicks off in India, rising gold prices force shoppers to reconsider their purchases, leading to changes in budgets and preferences for alternative metals. Reports also touch on the impact of gold exchange programs and digital investments on consumer behavior.

Levi Sumagaysay, a labor and policy reporter at CalMatters, discusses California's groundbreaking law mandating that Uber and Lyft drivers can collectively bargain. He highlights how this could change the dynamic for independent contractors, who traditionally lack certain labor rights. Levi anticipates national implications, compares the situation to Massachusetts and New York, and outlines drivers' main demands, including higher wages and better protections. The conversation also delves into organizing challenges and the unclear right to strike under the new law.

Aaron Steele, founder of Goats on the Go, shares his journey of using goats for landscaping in Iowa, blending business innovation with environmental sustainability. He discusses the operational challenges of managing such a unique venture, from labor to transportation. In addition, the conversation touches on the health of regional banks amidst concerns about loan fraud, rising auto loan delinquencies as economic warning signs, and the evolution of culinary culture beyond mere food elitism. Goats are the unexpected stars in this lively dialogue!

Jason Rosenbaum, the politics correspondent for St. Louis Public Radio, joins Kimberly to dissect the contentious landscape of Missouri politics. They explore the newly drawn congressional maps favoring Republicans, the clash between voter-led initiatives and legislative actions on issues like abortion rights, and the slow recovery from the recent tornado. Plus, they debate the merits of St. Louis-style pizza—will you be half full or half empty on its cheesy goodness?

Global stocks are feeling the pressure as investors fret over the stability of regional banks after some high-profile bankruptcies in the auto sector. The U.S. Chamber of Commerce is taking legal action against proposed visa fees, arguing they could stifle small businesses. Meanwhile, international travel to the U.S. is declining, with a staggering $31 billion loss predicted this year. Travelers are seeking alternatives in Western Europe and the Middle East, raising questions about how the U.S. can win back visitors.

Mortgage rates have dropped to 6.27%, prompting homeowners to consider renovations rather than moving. Research indicates a rise in home improvement spending could emerge as homeowners look to personalize their spaces. Meanwhile, a segment features insights on regional bank troubles and loan fraud. Lastly, a unique exploration of alternative fats in baking reveals their climate impact, offering a tasty twist with taste tests of innovative croissants.

A pivotal agreement aimed at cutting carbon emissions from global shipping faces collapse due to U.S. intervention. Concerns over potential consumer price hikes take center stage as the discussion unfolds. Meanwhile, China's Singles' Day kicks off early this year in an attempt to revive sluggish consumer spending. The podcast also dives into the booming tattoo industry, projected to reach $6.5 billion by 2033, featuring insights from artists and trends shaping this vibrant market.

Joanna Stern, a savvy technology columnist at The Wall Street Journal, shares her insights on the latest trends in social media and AI. She discusses Instagram's new PG-13 settings for teen accounts and the implications for parents and users. Joanna also delves into Walmart's partnership with OpenAI, highlighting how ChatGPT could revolutionize shopping. Lastly, she critiques Apple's rebranding of its streaming service, shedding light on why dropping 'Plus' might be more significant than it seems. Tune in for tech-savvy wisdom!

In this engaging discussion, food expert Francis Lam, host of The Splendid Table, explores the intriguing world of cultivated meat. He shares his firsthand experience tasting cultivated chicken, comparing its flavor and texture to traditional meat. Lam discusses the uncanny valley of meat alternatives and offers cooking tips for climate-friendly proteins like small oily fish, beans, and tofu. With insights on the production process and environmental impacts, this conversation is a delicious blend of culinary innovation and sustainability.

Daniel Ackerman, a Marketplace technology reporter specializing in the semiconductor industry, dives deep into the recent surge in TSMC's profits amid a booming chip market. He discusses how this growth impacts global supply chains and the broader economic landscape. The conversation also touches on a decline in CEO confidence linked to inflation and trade issues, which could trickle down to everyday Americans. Additionally, Ackerman highlights the critical need for skilled workers in tech and the partnership with Alabama’s career programs.